Only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People are eligible to apply as this position is exempt under the SPECIAL MEASURES PROVISION of S12(1) of the Equal Opportunity Act (VIC). 

About the role: 

• This position is accountable for overseeing the continued development and implementation of a range of initiatives, strategies and programs under the Aboriginal Workforce Strategy 2021 - 2026, and internal implementation of the department's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Safety Framework.
• The Principal Aboriginal Staff Engagement Officer works with a range of internal and external stakeholders to continuously improve the department's programs to attract increasing numbers of Aboriginal employees into career pathways that are diverse and inclusive.
• The Principal Aboriginal Staff Engagement Officer will provide strategic leadership to deliver strategies to create a culturally safe employee experience, where individuals are valued for their cultural knowledge and lived experience.
• The Aboriginal staff engagement function strives to build a culturally safe workplace to be an employer of choice for Aboriginal people. A core function is to attract increasing numbers of Aboriginal employees into career pathways that are diverse, inclusive and include caring for Aboriginal people, families and communities.
• The role involves developing effective relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders including other government agencies, health services and key Aboriginal health organisation and a range of program and policy areas within the department.

About us: 

At the Victorian Department of Health we want a future where Victorians are the healthiest people in the world. A Victoria where our children and people thrive, our workplaces are productive and safe, and our communities are more connected.  

We see it as our job to support Victorians to stay healthy and safe. And to deliver a world-class healthcare system that ensures every single Victorian can access safe, quality care that leads to better health outcomes for all. 

How you'll make a difference:

• Strategically design, develop and deliver departmental objectives that positively impact outcomes to increase the Aboriginal workforce participation and improve Aboriginal cultural safety as outlined in the department's Aboriginal Workforce Strategy and the Aboriginal Cultural Safety Framework. 
• Effectively supervise and provide leadership to an Aboriginal team of employees by:

• leading and supporting individuals to achieve their potential and contributing to organisational goals and outcomes.
• modelling behaviours integral to good people management and departmental values.
• where relevant, managing and monitoring specific improvement objectives in annual improvement plans relating to the area of responsibility.
• Extensive experience coaching, developing and managing a team
• Extensive experience in change management and providing positive and constructive leadership during and following change management periods
• Take a lead role in providing advice and recommendations and building the capability of others to create a culturally safe working environment for Aboriginal people.
• Proven ability to operate in accordance with delegated authority, consistent with departmental and government policies.
• Provide strategic thinking and future planning and oversee change management initiatives and integrated approaches to enhance compliance with department-wide policies.
• Strong critical analysis and reporting skills, high attention to detail, excellent writing skills and experience in managing stakeholder relationships.
• Forge strong connections across the department and with external stakeholders to facilitate a partnership approach to achieve outcomes in the Aboriginal Workforce Strategy and the Aboriginal Cultural Safety Framework. 
• Where responsible for overseeing, monitoring or delivering projects, ensure they are delivered in alignment with the principles of self-determination and accordance with relevant legislation and government regulations and guidelines.

Suitable applicants will be able to demonstrate:

• Demonstrated high level experience and understanding of working collaboratively with Aboriginal organisations and communities.
• A strong understanding of the Victorian health system, and knowledge of the department and its operating processes and information systems is essential.

To learn more please click ‘Apply' to view the Position Description on the Careers.vic website. 

What we offer: 

• The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world.
• A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service & Sector.
• A strong commitment to work-life balance, including a diverse array of flexible working arrangements.

How to apply: 

Applications should include a resume and a cover letter. Click the ‘Apply' button to view further information about the role including key contact details and the advertisement closing date. 

We are committed to developing and supporting a workforce that is well equipped and highly motivated to provide responsive and quality services to all Victorians. We continue to build an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity of backgrounds and differences to realise the potential of our employees for innovation and delivering services aimed at enhancing the lives of all Victorians. 

All roles can be worked flexibly and we encourage applications from Aboriginal people, people with disability, LGBTIQ+ and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Please contact us if you require any adjustments to participate in the recruitment process at inclusion@health.vic.gov.au. For more information on our commitment to inclusion and diversity see inclusion and diversity at the Department of Health.

Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks including proof of 3 vaccinations (including booster) against COVID-19. Information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence, in line with our Privacy Policy. 

The Jobs and Skills Exchange (JSE) Recruitment Policy allows for priority consideration for employees who apply through the Jobs Skills Exchange (JSE) jobs board platform. As such, these employees are strongly encouraged to submit their application through the JSE.